When planning a pregnancy, many couples seek out various information about pregnancy programs. Unfortunately, not all of the information circulating comes from reliable sources. Myths circulating in their environment or on social media often leave couples feeling anxious, even leading to inappropriate decisions.
However, the success of a pregnancy program is influenced by many factors, including age, health, sperm quality, reproductive health, and even the timing of intercourse. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the correct medical facts so you can approach your pregnancy program with more peace of mind and direction.
What is a Pregnancy Program?
A pregnancy program (promil) is a series of efforts to increase the chances of pregnancy. Promil doesn't always involve medical procedures. For many couples, the first step can be adopting a healthy lifestyle, taking folic acid, knowing their fertile period, and undergoing a pre-conception health check.
Myths and Facts About Pregnancy Programs
Myth 1: You'll Get Pregnant Right After Getting Married
Fact: Not all couples conceive immediately after marriage. In healthy couples, the chance of conceiving within a single menstrual cycle is around 20–25%. Therefore, pregnancy can occur within a few months to a year of starting to plan.
Myth 2: Pregnancy Programs Are Only the Wife's Responsibility
Fact: Fertility is affected by both the woman and the man. Male factors contribute to about one-third of infertility cases, so a combined evaluation is recommended.
Myth 3: Having sex every day will help you get pregnant faster.
Fact: The most important thing isn't excessive frequency, but rather the right timing. Regular intercourse, especially during the fertile period, is generally enough to increase the chances of pregnancy.
Myth 4: Using birth control before trying to conceive can cause infertility.
Fact: Modern contraception does not cause permanent infertility. After discontinuing use, most women can regain fertility, depending on their physical condition and the type of contraception used.
Myth 5: Not Getting Pregnant in Several Months Means You're Infertile
Fact: Not getting pregnant within a few months is still considered normal. However, if a couple has had regular intercourse without contraception for a year (or six months for women over 35) without pregnancy, it's best to consult a doctor.
Myth 6: Certain Foods Will Make You Get Pregnant Faster
Fact: No food or supplement can guarantee pregnancy. However, a balanced, nutritious diet is important to support reproductive health and prepare the body for pregnancy.
Steps to Take During a Pregnancy Program
To help increase the chances of pregnancy, couples can:
- Maintain ideal body weight.
- Eat a balanced nutritious diet.
- Start taking folic acid before getting pregnant.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Manage stress well.
- Know your fertile period and ovulation time.
- Have regular intimate relations without excessive pressure.
Pregnant women aren't just about conceiving as quickly as possible, but also about preparing the best conditions for both mother and baby. If you and your partner are planning a pregnancy, consult an ob-gyn for accurate information and recommendations tailored to your individual health conditions. With proper preparation, your chances of a healthy pregnancy will be optimal.
This article was written by Dr. Rahmedi Rosa, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).